Published On August 15, 2024 In Benue, Nigeria
By Inyima Nicholas Sunday, A Writer | Website:Â INTERNETISGOOD
The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared mpox, previously known as monkeypox, a global public health emergency for the second time in two years. This declaration comes in response to a significant outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and its spread to neighboring countries. The emergence of a new, more transmissible variant of the virus, known as clade Ib, has raised alarms among health officials and researchers alike.
Background of the Declaration
On August 14, 2024, the WHO convened an emergency committee to assess the current situation regarding mpox. The committee reviewed data from the DRC and surrounding nations, ultimately concluding that the outbreak posed a serious risk to public health both regionally and globally. This classification, termed a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC), is the highest alert level under the International Health Regulations (IHR) and is intended to facilitate coordinated international responses to health threats.The DRC has reported over 14,000 suspected cases of mpox this year, with at least 517 fatalities attributed to the disease. The outbreak has also spread to countries such as Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda, prompting urgent calls for a unified international response to contain the virus. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus emphasized the need for collaboration to halt the outbreak and protect lives, stating, “It’s evident that a unified international response is crucial to halt these outbreaks and preserve lives” .
Characteristics of Mpox
Mpox is primarily transmitted through close personal contact, including sexual activity, skin contact, and respiratory droplets. Symptoms typically include flu-like manifestations, such as fever, headaches, and muscle aches, followed by a painful rash characterized by pus-filled lesions. While the disease often presents mild symptoms, it can be fatal in rare cases, with a mortality rate of approximately 4% among reported cases .The virus is categorized into two main clades: clade I, which is endemic to central Africa, and clade II, which gained global attention in 2022. The recent emergence of clade Ib has raised concerns due to its increased transmissibility and potential for severe health implications. Experts have described this variant as “the most perilous to date,” highlighting the urgent need for enhanced surveillance and response measures .
Global Implications and Responses
The WHO’s declaration is expected to expedite research efforts, funding, and the implementation of international health measures aimed at controlling the outbreak. The Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) had issued a similar emergency declaration just a day prior, marking a significant moment for public health governance in the region. Africa CDC Director Jean Kaseya warned that the situation could escalate uncontrollably without prompt action, urging a proactive approach to contain and eradicate the threat .In the United States, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has alerted healthcare providers to remain vigilant for mpox cases, particularly among individuals who have recently traveled to the DRC or its neighboring countries. Although cases of clade II have decreased significantly since their peak in 2022, the emergence of clade Ib necessitates ongoing vigilance and preparedness .
Vaccine Availability and Recommendations
While vaccines for mpox are available in some countries, access remains limited in the DRC, where the outbreak is most severe. The WHO has called for increased funding to support vaccination efforts in lower-income countries and to enhance surveillance and response capabilities. Health authorities recommend that individuals in high-risk groups, such as men who have sex with men, receive two doses of the vaccine to mitigate the risk of infection .
Conclusion
The WHO’s declaration of mpox as a global public health emergency reflects the seriousness of the current outbreak and the need for immediate international cooperation to address the threat. As the situation evolves, health officials and researchers will continue to monitor the spread of the virus, assess the effectiveness of public health interventions, and advocate for increased resources to combat this emerging health crisis. The rapid spread of clade Ib, coupled with the high number of cases and fatalities, underscores the urgency of a coordinated global response to protect public health and prevent further transmission of mpox.